What does 'hyperechoic' describe in ultrasound imaging?

Hyperechoic in ultrasound imaging refers to tissues or materials that reflect sound waves more intensely than surrounding tissues, resulting in brighter areas on the ultrasound image. This description is particularly applicable to air, bones, or stones, which are composed of dense materials that produce strong echoes.

When sound waves encounter these structures, they reflect back more dramatically due to their high acoustic impedance compared to soft tissues or fluids. This high reflectivity makes hyperechoic structures clearly visible on the ultrasound, helping in the diagnosis and assessment of various conditions.

In contrast, soft tissue tends to have lower echogenicity, while fluid appears anechoic—meaning it produces very few echoes and shows up as dark areas on the scan. Fatty tissue can show variable echoes but generally does not reflect sound waves as strongly as bone or stones. Therefore, the correct interpretation of 'hyperechoic' identifies it with substances such as air, bones, or stones, as they exhibit the highest level of echogenicity on ultrasound images.